The NBA playoffs are here, and it’s the perfect excuse to invite family and friends over to enjoy great food, and a good game. There are a few essential elements to any game day party, and we’re here to help you plan a shindig that everyone will love.

Check out these tips for planning the perfect NBA playoffs party!

DECORATE

Choose your favorite team and deck out the house with banners, and streamers. Don’t forget the balloons! It’s an easy and inexpensive way to decorate and it will look like you’ve gone all out!

If you are feeling creative, use colored lighting in your favorite team’s colors to create a cool effect.

FOOD & DRINKS

What makes or breaks a good playoff party is the food. The elements of a great playoff menu are simple: dip, finger foods, fruits and veggies.

Get in the spirit by having tailgate themed foods like nachos, wings or a three layer dip, with jalapeno poppers, skewers, hot dogs or pretzels.

Add some grilled veggies and a fruit platter to round it all out.

Don’t forget the drinks! Make sure to have a good mix of sodas, beer and wine. For added fun, create a cocktail of the night and make sure the color and name matches your favorite team’s theme.

ENTERTAINMENT

Obviously, you’ll have plenty of entertainment while watching the game, but it’s great to turn it up a notch with raffles and prizes. Try having everyone guess who will score first, the winning team, the winning score, etc. to win t-shirts and other prizes.